Positive Interupter

Prerequisite

None

Tools

A handful of delicious treats
Treat pouch (do not have the treats visible)

Training Environment

Start in an environment where there are no distractions

Recommended Treat Position

Give the dog the treat or place it on his mat.

Steps

Choose a noise, preferably one that you can make without a tool. I use a clicking noise I make with the front of my mouth.
Stay on each of these steps until you have at least three successful repetitions.
With your dog in front of you (use a leash if you need to) make the noise you want to use.
Give your dog a treat. Be sure not to get the treat out until you have already made the noise.
Repeat this several times.
Begin waiting for your dog to turn his head towards you before you give him the treat.
If your dog is leashed, remove the leash. You should still be in an environment where it is easy for your dog to pay attention to you.
Make your noise when your dog isn’t looking at you. When he looks at you, give him a treat.
Allow your dog to wander a little. When he gets 2-3 feet from you, make your noise and give your dog a treat right in front of you (so he has to come back to you).
Allow your dog to wander to five feet before making your noise.
Change venues and work from the beginning. Work as many different venues as possible. Always remember to make it easier when you switch venues, even if you have to go back to the beginning.
After a few weeks, you should be able to use your positive interrupter in real life situations.

Homework

Count out 10-15 treats.
Go through the above steps until you run out of treats.
Do this a minimum of three times a day.
Each time you start a session you may need to go back a few steps (review) so your dog will be successful.

At the End of This Step

Your dog should be redirecting toward you when you make your noise. Keep in mind this noise is to interrupt your dog when he is “on the way” to getting into trouble, not after he has already found it. For example, if you see someone pull into the driveway and your dog is inclined to run to the door as soon as they walk down the path, make your noise right away. Don’t wait until your dog has already made it to the door and lost his mind.